Incinerator with pivoting grating system

ABSTRACT

Aspects of the invention are directed to an incinerator and ash removal system. The incinerator includes a grating system, which has pair of grating panels arranged in a V-shaped configuration. The panels can be independently pivotable from each other. Pivoting the panels during incineration can aerate the garbage being burned and can provide a stoking effect. Each panel includes a support rack on which a plurality of bricks is removably connected. The bricks can be configured with a plurality of channels that can deliver pre-heated air to the combustion chamber. The v-shaped grating can be directly above an ash removal system, which includes a first auger and a second auger. Generally, the first auger can break up the products from combustion, and the second auger can transport these products out of the combustion chamber.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates in general to waste disposal and, moreparticularly, to waste disposal by incineration.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In a traditional incinerator system, waste is moved into a furnace whereit is burned at high temperatures. The furnace includes a grate on whichthe garbage is supported while it is burned. To facilitate combustion,air is supplied from below the grate. The air travels up throughopenings in the grate.

During the incineration process, some materials, such as glass andplastic, may melt before they burn. Some of the melted material collectson the grate. Over time, the amount of material that collects on thegrate begins to appreciably inhibit airflow, which in turn adverselyaffects the combustion process. If the amount of airflow blockagebecomes too great, then the grate must be replaced or cleaned. Both ofthese options are time consuming, labor intensive and expensive.

Thus, there is a need for an incineration system that can minimize suchconcerns.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one respect, aspects of the invention are directed to an incineratorsystem. The system includes a combustion chamber and a grating system.The grating system includes a first panel and an opposite second panel.Each of the first and second panels supports a plurality of bricks. Atleast a portion of each panel is housed within the combustion chamber.The first panel and the second panel are angled relative to each otherso as to be arranged in a generally v-shaped configuration.

Each of the first and second panels are pivotable. The first and secondpanels can be independently pivotable. The first panel can include anassociated pivot point, and the second panel includes an associatedpivot point. The pivot point of the first panel and/or the pivot pointof the second panel can be located in an upper end region of each panel.The first panel and/or the second panel can be pivotably mounted to anysuitable structure, including structure located outside of thecombustion chamber. In such case, a portion of the first panel and/orsecond panel can extend outside of the combustion chamber.

An arm can be operatively connected to each of the first and secondpanels. Pivoting movement of the first and second panels can be achievedby movement of the arm. The arm can be a hydraulic arm. In oneembodiment, a timer can be operatively associated with the hydraulicarm. Thus, the panels can be pivoted on a predetermined timed basis.

At least one of the bricks can have a channel extending therethrough.Each channel can be fluidly connected to an air source. As a result, aircan enter and flow along the channel.

In another respect, aspects of the invention are directed to an ashremoval system. The system can include a first auger and a second auger.The second auger can be located below the first auger. The first augercan have a rib that can break up combustion products, such as ash. Thefirst auger can include a plurality of passages therein to deliver denseair to the combustor help in the final burning of the garbage. Thesecond auger can be used to transport the products of the incinerationprocess out of the combustor for disposal. The first auger and/or thesecond auger can rotate at a variable speed. The direction of rotationof the first auger and/or the second auger can be reversible. The firstand second augers can be at least partially submerged in a fluid, suchas water.

In another respect, aspects of the invention related to a method ofincinerating garbage. Garbage can be supplied to a combustion chamberwhich can includes a grating system with a first panel and an oppositesecond panel arranged in a generally v-shaped configuration. Each of thefirst and second panels can support a plurality of bricks. Each of thefirst and second panels can be pivotably mounted in the combustionchamber. According to the method, garbage can be supplied to thecombustion chamber and supported on the grating system. The garbage canbe burned. To facilitate burning, the garbage can be agitated bypivotally moving the first panel and/or the second panel, therebyallowing air to mix with the garbage. To further facilitate burning,pre-heated air can be to the combustion chamber by passing air in heatexchanging relation through a channel in one or more of the bricks.

In still another respect, aspects of the invention can be directed to abrick for an incinerator. The brick can be made of a refractorymaterial. The brick can provide one or more planar regions forengagement with other bricks. One or more channels can extend throughthe brick. The brick can be positioned so that a portion of the brickoverhangs an exit end of each channel.

In yet another respect, aspects of the invention are directed to agrating panel for an incinerator. The panel can include a support rackformed by frame members connected by a plurality of rods. A plurality ofbricks can be removably mounted on the support rack. The bricks can bearranged in a cascading manner on the support rack.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a brick in accordance with aspects ofthe invention.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view of a brick in accordance withaspects of the invention, showing a channel provided in the brick.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional side view of an alternative configurationfor a brick in accordance with aspects of the invention, showing a firstchannel and a second channel formed in the brick.

FIG. 4 is a bottom view of a pair of bricks in accordance with aspectsof the invention, showing the bricks separated from each other.

FIG. 5 is a bottom view of a pair of bricks in accordance with aspectsof the invention, showing the bricks in abutment.

FIG. 6 is a perspective bottom view of a pair of bricks in accordancewith aspects of the invention, showing the bricks in abutment.

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a support rack in accordancewith aspects of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a support rack in accordance withaspects of the invention.

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of a grating panel in accordance with aspectsof the invention.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a support rack in accordance withaspects of the invention, showing the support rack being made of morethan two frame members and showing in phantom a pair of bricks removablyinstalled thereon.

FIG. 11 is a side elevation view of a panel in accordance with aspectsof the invention, in which a portion of the structure of the supportrack has been removed to show the interaction between each row of brickswith other rows of bricks as well as with the rods and mounting rods ofthe support rack.

FIG. 12 is a side elevation view partially diagrammatic of a combustorin accordance with aspects of the invention, showing a pivotable gratingsystem with panels arranged in a V-shaped configuration.

FIG. 13 is a side elevation view of an ash removal system in accordancewith aspects of the invention.

FIG. 14 is a top plan view of an incineration system in accordance withaspects of the invention.

FIG. 15 is a side elevation view of a feeder and combustor in accordancewith aspects of the invention.

FIG. 16 is a side elevation view of a combustor in accordance withaspects of the invention, showing the pivoting movement of the gratingsystem.

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional side view of a panel in accordance withaspects of the invention, in which a portion of the structure of thesupport rack has removed to show the flow of molten garbage along thebricks of the panel.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Aspects of the present invention relate to incinerator components,systems and associated methods that can enhance the performance of anincinerator. Embodiments according to aspects of the invention are shownin FIGS. 1-17, but the present invention is not limited to theillustrated structure or application. Further, the following detaileddescription is intended only as exemplary.

In one respect, aspects of the invention are directed to bricks for anincinerator. The brick can be a part of an improved grating system.Referring to FIG. 1, a brick 10 according to aspects of the inventioncan have a body 12. The body 12 can have any suitable shape and can beconfigured for the particular type of garbage that will be burned. Inone embodiment, the body 12 can be generally diamond-shaped or generallyparallelogrammatic, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The brick 10 can be madeof any material suited to withstand high temperature environments, suchas a refractory material. One example of a suitable refractory materialis silicon carbide. In one embodiment, the brick 10 can be made of amaterial that can withstand at least about 3000 degrees Fahrenheit. Thebrick 10 can be formed by any suitable casting process.

The following description of the brick 10 includes several relativeterms, including, for example, “inner,” “outer,” “upper,” and “lower.”These terms refer to the relative position of the brick 10 when it isinstalled in its operational position. It will be understood that theseterms are used to facilitate the description and are not intended to belimiting.

The body 12 can include an inner lateral side 14 and an outer lateralside 16. A substantial portion of the inner and outer lateral sides 14,16 can be substantially planar. The term “substantially planar,” as usedhere and in other places herein, is intended to mean true planar andslight variations therefrom. In one embodiment, the inner lateral side14 can be substantially parallel to the outer lateral side 16. The term“substantially parallel,” as used here an in other places herein, isintended to mean true parallel and slight variations therefrom. Thethickness of the brick 10 can be defined as the distance between theinner and outer lateral sides 14, 16. In one embodiment, the thicknessof the brick 10 can be about 9 inches.

The brick 10 can also include an outer peripheral surface 18. Generally,the outer peripheral surface 18 can be divided into an outer portion 20and an inner portion 22. The outer portion 20 can have any suitablecontour. In one embodiment, the outer portion 20 can include a firstupper planar region 24 and a first lower planar region 26 with an uppertransition region 28 therebetween. It should be noted that the term“planar” can include a single continuous surface as well as a pluralityof surfaces that collectively define a plane. The upper transitionregion 28 can have any suitable form. For instance, the upper transitionregion 28 can be generally rounded. Alternatively, the upper transitionregion 28 can be angular.

The inner portion 22 of the outer peripheral surface 18 can have anysuitable contour. For instance, the inner portion 22 can include asecond upper planar region 30 and a second lower planar region 32 with alower transition region 34 therebetween. The lower transition region 34can have any suitable form. For instance, the lower transition region 34can be generally rounded. Alternatively, the lower transition region 34can be angular. The lower transition region 34 can be contoured so thata lower trench 38 is formed. In one embodiment, the lower trench 38 canbe formed by one or more wave-like contours 36 in the outer peripheralsurface 18. The first upper planar region 24 can be substantiallyparallel to the second lower planar region 32. Alternatively or inaddition, the first lower planar region 26 can be substantially parallelto the second upper planar region 30.

There can also be an upper end region 40 between the first upper planarregion 24 and the second upper planar region 30. In the upper end region40, the outer peripheral surface 18 can be contoured, such as by provingan upturn portion 42, so that an upper trench 44 is formed. Similarly,there can be a lower end region 46 between the first lower planar region26 and the second lower planar region 32. In the lower end region 46,the outer peripheral surface 18 can have any suitable conformation,including, for example, a rounded end (as shown in FIG. 2) or an angularend.

Referring to FIG. 2, the brick 10 can include one or more channels 48.The channels 48 can be formed in the brick by any suitable process,including during the casting process or in a subsequent operation, suchas drilling. The channels 48 can have any suitable conformation. Forinstance, the channels 48 can be generally circular, semi-circular,rectangular, triangular, oval, semi-oval, polygonal, trapezoidal,V-shaped or U-shaped in cross-sectional shape. The channels 48 can haveany suitable cross-sectional size. The size and/or shape of each channel48 may or may not be substantially uniform along its length. The term“substantially uniform” includes true uniform and slight variationstherefrom. Each channel 48 can have any suitable length. In oneembodiment, it is preferable if the ratio of the channel's diameter tothe length is at least about 1:4. The channels 48 can be substantiallystraight or can include one or more non-straight features. The term“substantially straight” is intended to mean truly straight and slightvariations therefrom.

The channels 48 can be provided in any suitable location. In oneembodiment, one or more first channels 50 can be formed in the body sothat each first channel 50 opens to the inner portion 22 of the outerperipheral surface 18. The channels 50 can have an inlet end 52 and anexit end 54. When a plurality of first channels 50 is provided, thefirst channels 50 can be substantially identical to each other. The term“substantially identical,” as used here and in other places, is intendedto mean exactly identical and slight variations therefrom.Alternatively, at least one of the first channels 50 can differ from theother first channels 50 in at least one respect, including, for example,size, shape, cross-sectional area, length or any other respect describedherein. Further, the plurality of first channels 50 can be substantiallyparallel to each other. Alternatively, at least one of the firstchannels 50 can be non-parallel to the other first channels 50. Thefirst channels 50 can be recessed from the end of the lower end region46 when the brick 10 is installed in the operational position, which canresult in a portion of the brick 10 overhanging the exit end 54 of eachfirst channel 50.

In one embodiment, the brick 10 can have a full first channel 50 a and apartial first channel 50 b, as shown in FIG. 4. The full channel 50 acan be generally centrally located. The full channel 50 a can open tothe inner portion 22 of the outer peripheral surface 18. At least aportion of the full channel 50 a can be in the second lower planarregion 32. The partial channel 50 b can be any portion of a fullchannel. For instance, the partial channel 50 b can be a quarter, onethird, one half, two third or three quarter channel. In one embodiment,the partial channel 50 b can open to the inner lateral side 14 as wellas the inner portion 22 of the outer peripheral surface 18.

Alternatively or in addition to the first channels 50, one or moresecond channels 56 can extend through the body 12 of the brick 10. Thesecond channels 56 can have an inlet end 58 and an exit end 60. Oneexample of such an arrangement is shown in FIG. 3. When the brick 10 isinstalled in its operational position, the second channels 56 aredisposed at a higher elevation than the first channels 50. There can beany suitable spatial relationship between the first and second channels50, 56. In one embodiment, the first channels 50 can be generallyparallel to the second channels 56. When the brick 10 includes secondchannels 56, the outer peripheral surface 18 of the brick 10 can beadapted so that the outer peripheral surface 18 overhangs the exit end60 on each of the second channels 56, as is shown in FIG. 3.

The brick 10 can include one or more features to facilitate installationand assembly. For example, the brick 10 can include one or more recesses62 in the outer lateral side 16 of the brick 10. Each recess 62 can haveany suitable shape and size. Examples of the use of such recesses 62will be described in more detail below.

In one embodiment, the bricks 10 can be provided in pairs, whichincludes a first brick 10 a and a second brick 10 b, as shown in FIG. 4.The above description concerning brick 10 is equally applicable to thefirst and second bricks 10 a, 10 b. The second brick 10 b can besubstantially the mirror image of the first brick 10 a. The term“substantially the mirror image” includes the true mirror image as wellas slight variations therefrom. However, in some instances, the firstand second bricks 10 a, 10 b can be different. The inner lateral side 14of the first brick 10 a and the inner lateral side 14 of the secondbrick 10 b can be adapted for substantial mating engagement.

The first and second bricks 10 a, 10 b can be arranged so that the innerlateral side 14 of the first brick 10 a is substantially adjacent theinner lateral side 14 of the second brick 10 b, as is shown in FIGS. 5and 6. The term “substantially adjacent” can include actual abutment ofthe inner lateral sides 14 and a slight spacing between the innerlateral sides 14. When arranged in such a manner, only the outer lateralside 16 of the first and second bricks 10 a, 10 b may be visible. Thepartial channel 50 b in the first brick 10 a and the partial channel 50b in the second brick 10 b can collectively define a full channel 50 c.

Instead of providing a pair of bricks 10 a, 10 b, a single brick withall of the above features can be provided. However, depending on thematerial selection and other considerations, such a brick may not befeasible at least from a weight standpoint during transportation and/orinstallation.

In another respect, aspects of the invention are directed to a gratingsystem 70. The grating system 70 can be formed by opposing panels 72arranged in a V-shaped configuration, as is shown in FIG. 12. Each panel72 can include a support rack 74 on which a plurality of bricks 10, suchas those described above, can be supported. An example of a support rack74 is shown in FIG. 9. Each of the components of the grating system 70and its assembly will be described in detail below.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the rack 74 can have any suitableconfiguration. The rack 74 can include a plurality of elongated framemembers 76. The following description will describe a rack having twoframe members 76: a first frame member 76 a and a second frame member 76b. However, it will be understood that this description is not intendedto be limiting, as there can be any number of frame members, dependingon the desired size of a panel 74. The frame members 76 a, 76 b can bemade of any suitable material. In one embodiment, the frame members 76a, 76 b can be made of boiler plate steel. The frame members 76 a, 76 bcan be substantially identical; that is, the frame members 76 a, 76 bcan be exactly identical or there can be slight variations between them,including, for example, the pivoting features described below. The firstand second frame members 76 a, 76 b can be spaced from each other so asto receive a pair of bricks 10 a, 10 b, as described above. In oneembodiment, the frame members 76 a, 76 b can be spaced about 18 inchesapart.

The frame members 76 a, 76 b can include a series of protrusions 78. Theprotrusions 78 can be substantially identical to each other.Alternatively, at least one of the protrusions 78 can be different fromthe other protrusions 78 in one or more respects. Each of the framemembers 76 a, 76 b can include a first set of passages 80; each of thefirst set of passages 80 can be provided in a respective protrusion 78on the frame members 76 a, 76 b. The first set of passages 80 can besubstantially aligned along the length of each frame member 76 a, 76 b.The term “substantially aligned,” as used here and in other places,means true alignment and slight variations therefrom. However, in oneembodiment, at least one of the passages of the first set of passages 80can be offset from the other passages 80 in the respective frame member76 a or 76 b. Each of the frame members 76 a, 76 b can also include asecond set of passages 82 and a third set of passages 84. The second setof passages 82 can be substantially aligned along the length of eachframe member 76 a, 76 b. Likewise, the third set of passages 84 can besubstantially aligned along the length of each frame member 76 a, 76 b.However, in one embodiment, at least one of the passages of the secondset of passages 82 and/or in the third set of passages 84 can be offsetfrom the other passages 82 or 84 in the frame members 76 a, 76 b.

The first and second frame members 76 a, 76 b can be positioned so thateach of the first set of passages 80 in the first frame member 76 a issubstantially aligned with a respective one of the first set of passages80 in the second frame member 76 b. Similarly, each of the second set ofpassages 82 in the first frame member 76 a can be substantially alignedwith a respective one of the second set of passages 82 in the secondframe member 76 b. Each of the third set of passages 84 in the firstframe member 76 a can be substantially aligned with a respective one ofthe third set of passages 84 in the second frame member 76 b.

The frame members 76 a, 76 b can be structurally connected together inany suitable manner. In one embodiment, the frame members 76 a, 76 b canbe structurally by a plurality of rods 86. The rods 86 can be made outof any suitable material, such as steel. The rods 86 can have anysuitable cross-sectional shape, including substantially circular,rectangular, triangular and polygonal, just to name a few possibilities.The rods 86 can have any suitable size. In one embodiment, the rods 86can have a diameter of about 1 inch. At least one of the plurality ofrods 86 can be different from the other rods 86 in one or more respects,including any of those described above.

Each rod 86 can be passed through aligned a pair of passages in theframe members 76 a, 76 b. For instance, one rod 86 can be passed throughone of the second plurality of passages 82 in the first frame member 76a and an aligned one of the second plurality of passages 82 in the leftframe member 76 b. Similarly, one rod 86 can be passed through one ofthe third plurality of passages 84 in the first frame member 76 a and analigned one of the third plurality of passages 84 in the second framemember 76 b. The rods 86 can be secured to the frame members 76 a, 76 bin any suitable manner, including by welding, interference fit,mechanical engagement, fasteners, or adhesives. The frame members 76 a,76 b and the rods 86 can cooperate to form the structural support forthe panel 72.

At least one of the frame member members 76 a, 76 b can include one ormore features to allow the panel 72 to be pivoted in it its operationalposition. For instance, at least one of the frame members 76 a, 76 b caninclude a pivot protrusion 88 having a cutout 90 formed therein, asshown in FIG. 7. Such pivoting features can be provided in any suitablelocation on the frame members 76 a, 76 b. In one embodiment, thepivoting features can be provided in an upper end region of at least oneof the frame members 76 a, 76 b. Any suitable number of pivot points canbe provided.

Bricks 10 in accordance with aspects of the invention can be removablyinstalled on the support rack 74 to form a grate panel 72. The bricks 10installed on the support rack 74 can be substantially identical to eachother, or at least one of the bricks 10 can be different. The supportrack 74 can provide one or more features to facilitate such mounting.For instance, a mounting rod 94 can be passed through each of the firstset of passages 80 in the first frame member 76 a and through an alignedone of the first plurality of passages 80 in the second frame member 76b. In one embodiment, the mounting rod 94 can be undersized relative tothe passages 80 so that there is clearance therebetween. In oneembodiment, there can be about ⅛ inch clearance. Such clearance canallow for thermal expansion and contraction of the mounting rod 94during incinerator operation. In such case, the ends of each mountingrod 94 can be held in place by any suitable retainer. In one embodiment,the retainer can be a fastener, such as a cotter pin.

In one embodiment, a first pair of first and second bricks 10 a, 10 b,as described above, can be received in between the frame members 76 a,76 b, as shown in FIG. 9. The first and second bricks 76 a, 76 b can bepositioned so that the upper trench 44 (collectively formed by the uppertrench 44 in the first brick 10 a and the upper trench 44 in the secondbrick 10 b) engages a respective first mounting rod 94 and so that thelower trench 38 (collectively formed by the lower trench 38 in the firstbrick 10 a and the lower trench 38 in the second brick 10 b) engages arespective second mounting rod 94, as shown in FIG. 11. The secondmounting rod 94 can be below the first mounting rod 94.

It should be noted that the upper end region 40 of each brick 10 can beproximate one of the rods 86. In some instances, a brick 10 may contactone of the rods 86. Alternatively, the upper end region 40 of each brick10 can be spaced from one of the rods 86. In one embodiment, there canbe a clearance of about 3/16 inch between the upper end region 40 of abrick 10 and the rod 86. The rods 86 can act as a stop to help preventthe bricks 10 from falling out of place if a brick 10 should becomeloose.

The outer lateral sides 16 of each brick 10 a, 10 b can abut arespective one of the frame members 76 a, 76 b. A second pair of bricks10 a, 10 b can be installed in a similar manner, as described above inconnection with the first pair of bricks 10 a, 10 b. It should be notedthat the collective upper trench 44 formed by the second pair of bricks10 a, 10 b can engage the second mounting rod 94. As a result, thesecond mounting rod 94 can be substantially surrounded by the uppertrench 44 formed by the second pair of bricks 10 a, 10 b and the lowertrench 38 formed by the first pair of bricks 10 a, 10 b, as is shown inFIG. 11. Similar engagements with the other mounting rods 94 can occurif additional rows of bricks are provided. In the case of the uppermostrow of bricks 10, the mounting rod 94 may only be engaged by the uppertrench 44 of the uppermost row of bricks 10, as is shown in FIG. 11.Likewise, in the case of the lowermost row of bricks 10, the mountingrod 94 may only be engaged by the lower trench 38 of the lowermost rowof bricks 10, as is shown in FIG. 11.

It should also be noted that the second lower planar region 32 formed bythe first pair of bricks 10 a, 10 b can engage the first upper planarregion 24 formed by the second pair of bricks 10 a, 10 b. The secondlower planar region 32 and the first upper planar region 24 can beadapted for substantial mating engagement.

It will be appreciated that the bricks 10 can be held in place by theirengagement with the support rack 74 and neighboring bricks 10 and bygravity. The bricks 10 can be mounted without the use of mortar or otherbonding agent. Further, each of the protrusions 78 on the frame memberscan be received in a respective recess 62 in the outer lateral side of abrick 10, as is shown in FIG. 9. As a result, the support rack 74 can besubstantially shielded by the bricks 10. Such an arrangement can protectthe support rack 74 from being exposed to the high temperatureoperational environment of the incinerator.

The grate panel 72 can be as long and as wide as desired. In order tomake the grate panel 72 longer, the length of the frame members 76 a, 76b can be increased. If a wider grate panel 72 is desired, additionalframe members 76 can be added to the support rack 74 in any of themanners described above. An example of a wider grate formed byadditional frame members 76 is shown in FIG. 10. In one embodiment, thegrate panel 72 can be about 14 feet wide. When additional frame members76 are used, one or more of these additional frame members 76 can beequipped with features to facilitate the pivoting of the panel 72 inoperation, such as those discussed above. Any suitable quantity of suchpivoting features can be provided. In one embodiment, the pivotingfeatures can be provided on every other frame member 76.

The grate panel 72 can be pivotably mounted on any suitable structure.In one embodiment, a portion of the grate panel 72, such as pivotprotrusion 88, can extend outside of the combustion section of theincinerator system, as is generally shown in FIG. 12. This portion ofthe grate panel 72 can be pivotably mounted to any suitable structure,including an outside wall of the combustor section. In anotherembodiment, the grate panel 72 can be pivotably mounted to structureinside the combustor section of the incinerator system.

Each of the grate panels 72 can be operatively associated with anysuitable device or structure that can cause the grate panels 72 topivot, including, for example, a hydraulic arm 96. The hydraulic arm 96or other suitable structure can be operatively connected with anyportion of the grate panel 72. Each grate panel 72 can be independentlypivotable from the other grate panels 72. A timer 98 can be operativelyassociated with each hydraulic arm 96 or other structure so that thegrate panel 72 can be pivoted on a predetermined timed basis at anydesired interval. Alternatively, the hydraulic arm 96 or other structurecan be manually operated.

In a grating system 70 according to aspects of the invention, a pair ofgrate panels 72 can be arranged in a combustion chamber 100 in agenerally V-shaped configuration, as shown in FIG. 12. The grate panels72 can be disposed at any suitable angle. In one embodiment, each of thegrate panels 72 can be arranged at about 45 degrees relative tohorizontal in their non-pivoted position. The grate panels 72 can haveany suitable range of motion. The range of motion of one grate panel 72may or may not be the same as the opposing grate panel 72. In oneembodiment, the lower end 166 of at least one of the grate panels 72 canhave a range of pivoting motion of about 1 foot.

The incinerator system 102 according to aspects of the invention canalso include an ash removal system 104, as shown in FIG. 12. The ashremoval system 104 is generally located in the region directly below thegrating system 70 according to aspects of the invention. While referredto as an ash removal system herein, it will be understood that the ashremoval system 104 is not limited to removing ash, as it can be used toremove any products and leftover materials of the incineration process.

The ash removal system 104 includes a reservoir 106 filled with a fluid,such as water 108. The fluid level can be adjustable so that the fluidcan be selectively added or removed as needed. The supply of new waterto the reservoir can help keep the water at a relatively cooltemperature. In an upper region 110, the reservoir 106 can include oneor more slanted walls 114. The slanted walls 114 can help to minimizethe likelihood of ash and other combustion products sticking to thewalls of the reservoir 106. The reservoir can be made out of anysuitable material, including, for example, stainless steel.

In its non-pivoted position, a lower end portion 116 of each grate panel72 can directly contact a portion of the reservoir 106. In such aposition, a chamber 118 can be formed behind each panel 72. The chamber118 can be in fluid communication with an air supply device, such as ablower 120 or vents. Preferably, the air supply device can deliver airto the chamber 118 at variable rates. The chamber 118 can be in fluidcommunication with the channels 50, 56 in the bricks 10, therebyallowing any air received in the chamber 118 to enter and flow throughthe channels 50, 56.

The ash removal system 104 can also include a first auger 122 and asecond auger 124, as is shown in FIG. 13. A portion of each auger 122,124 can pass through the reservoir 106. Generally, as will be explainedin greater detail later, the first auger 122 can be used to break upgarbage and combustion products as well as to help in the final burn ofthe garbage. The second auger 124 can be used to transport the productsof the incineration process out of the reservoir 106.

The first auger 122 can be disposed at a higher elevation than thesecond auger 124. The first auger 122 can be at least partiallysubmerged in the water 108. The second auger 124 can be completelysubmerged in the water 108. The first auger 122 can have a largerdiameter than the second auger 124. The first and second augers 122, 124can be substantially parallel to each other. Further, the first andsecond augers 122, 124 can be substantially aligned in the verticaldirection.

The first auger 122 can have an outer peripheral surface 126 and ahollow interior 128 (FIG. 12). The first auger 122 can have any suitablesize. In one embodiment, the first auger 122 can be about 28 inches indiameter. A rib 130 can extend helically along the outer peripheralsurface 126 of the first auger 122. The rib 130 can have any suitablesize or cross-sectional geometry. For instance, the rib 130 can have asquare cross-sectional shape. In one embodiment, the rib 130 can beabout 1 inch high. A plurality of passages 132 can extend though thewall 134 of the first auger 122. The passages can be distributed alongthe first auger 122 in any suitable manner. In one embodiment, thepassages 132 can be distributed helically along the outer peripheralsurface 126 of the first auger 122. The passages 132 can have anysuitable spacing. There can be any suitable quantity of passages 132.The passages 132 can have any suitable size and shape. In oneembodiment, the passages 132 can be substantially identical to eachother. In another embodiment, at least one of the passages 132 can bedifferent from the other passages 132 in one or more respects, includingthose described above.

A gas, such as air, can be supplied to the hollow interior 128 of thefirst auger 122. The air can be supplied in any suitable manner. In oneembodiment, a blower 136 can be in fluid communication with the hollowinterior 128 of the first auger 122. The blower 136 can be a variablespeed blower. The blower 136 can supply ambient air to the hollowinterior 128. As will be explained in greater detail later, the airsupplied to the hollow interior 128 can be kept relatively cool due tothe at least partial submergence of the first auger 122 in the water108. The air can be expelled through at least the passages 132 that areabove the water 108.

The first auger 122 can be rotatably mounted in the reservoir 106 in anysuitable manner. The first auger 122 can be rotated in any suitablemanner, including, for example, by a motor, hydraulics and/or gearreduction. In one embodiment, the speed of rotation of the first auger122 can be varied. In one embodiment, the first auger 122 can turn atabout one revolution per minute. The first auger 122 can be runcontinuously during incinerator operation. The direction of rotation ofthe first auger 122 can be reversible. Reversing of the direction ofrotation during operation can help to dislodge any materials that maybuild up on the rib 130 and/or outer peripheral surface 126 of the firstauger 122. In one embodiment, the first auger 122 can be rotated in afirst direction for a first period of time, and then rotated in a secondopposite direction for a second period of time. Such cycling between thedirection of rotation can be repeated as needed.

The second auger 124 can have an outer peripheral surface 138. Thesecond auger 124 can have any suitable size. In one embodiment, thediameter of the second auger 124 can be about ¼ the size of the diameterof the first auger 122. A rib 140 can extend helically along the outerperipheral surface 138 of the second auger 124. The rib 140 can have anysuitable size or cross-sectional geometry. The second auger 124 can berotatably mounted in the reservoir 106 in any suitable manner. Thesecond auger 124 can be rotated in any suitable manner, including, forexample, by a motor, hydraulics and/or gear reduction. In oneembodiment, the speed of rotation of the second auger 124 can be varied.The second auger 124 can be run continuously during incineratoroperation.

The ash removal system 104 can also include a conveyor 142. The conveyor142 can be operatively positioned relative to the second auger 124 toreceive any materials transported by the second auger 124. The materialscan be removed from the conveyor 142 and disposed of in any suitablemanner. The conveyor 124 is located in a chamber 144 that is filled withwater 146. The chamber 144 can capture water from the reservoir 106, atleast some of which can be transported out of the reservoir 106 by thesecond auger 124. A portion of the second auger 124 can extend into thechamber 144.

The conveyer 142 can include an exit end 148 that has a hook-like shapeor includes a hook attached thereto. As a result, the exit end 148 canfacilitate engagement by a front end loader, which can position itsblade under the exit end 148 and lift up the exit end 148 of theconveyor 142. The front end loader can back up so as to pull theconveyor out of the chamber 144. To facilitate removal of the conveyor142, a roller 150 can be provided on underside of the conveyor 142. Suchfeatures can avoid the need for providing a crane, thereby minimizingexpense and downtime.

Having described the various individual components of an incineratorsystem according to aspects of the invention, one manner of using thesystem will now be described. It will be understood that the followingdescription is illustrative and is not intended to be limiting.

FIG. 14 shows an incineration plant 102 according to aspects of theinvention. Garbage can be brought to the incineration plant. A scale 152can be provided to weigh the garbage. The garbage can be removed fromthe truck and transported to a crusher 154. In one embodiment, suchtransport can be achieved by loading the garbage onto a conveyor 156.The conveyor 156 can be surrounded by V-shaped walls to capture anygarbage that may fall off of or that may otherwise miss the conveyor,thereby aiding cleanup. The conveyor 156 can deliver the garbage to thecrusher 154, which can crush and separate the garbage.

From the crusher 154, the crushed garbage can be transported on aconveyor 160. On this conveyor 160, the crushed garbage can be observedor tested to detect the presence of valuables and/or other desiredmaterials. Such things can be removed by hand or other suitable means.For example, certain metals can be removed by the use of magnets. Theconveyor 160 can transport the crushed garbage over a wall 162 and candrop the crushed garbage onto a first location 164 on the plant floor. Amound of crushed garbage 166 can collect on the floor. Garbage from thismound 166 can be transferred to a second location 168 on the plant floor164. Such transfer can be achieved by a skid loader, other suitablemachinery or a shovel, just to name a few possibilities.

At this second location 168, an overhead loader 170, such as a crane organtry can pick up the garbage. The overhead loader can be slidablymounted on a wall 172 of the plant. In one embodiment, the loader can beadapted to pick up from about 600 to about 800 pounds of garbage pergrab. A second overhead loader (not shown) can be slidably mounted onthe wall 172 as a backup to the other overhead loader.

The loader 170 can transport the garbage to one or more feeders 174. Anoperator can select the feeder 174 into which the garbage will bedeposited based on the content of the garbage. For instance, one of thefeeders 174 can be dedicated to receiving rubber and another can bereserved for household products. The overhead loader 170 can includesystems to weigh the garbage it transfers to each feeder 174. Such ameasurement can be used to verify the weight of garbage measured earlieron the scales 152.

In one embodiment, there can be three feeders 174 a, 174 b, 176 c(collectively referred to as feeders 174). Each of the feeders 174 canbe connected to a respective combustion chamber 176 a, 176 b, 176 c(collectively referred to as combustion chambers 176). However, it willbe understood that there can be any number of feeders 176. Referring toFIG. 15, each feeder 176 can include an inlet 178 which can be closed byan inlet door 180. Each feeder 176 can also include an exit 182 whichcan be closed by an exit door 184. The inlet door 180 can be opened sothat the respective feeder 176 can receive garbage 188 from the overheadloader 170. The operator can pick one of the feeders 176, based at leastin part on the type of garbage being burned. Once the garbage 188 isdeposited inside the selected feeder 176, the inlet door 180 can beclosed. Preferably, the inlet door 180 and the exit door 184 are notopened at the same time.

With the inlet door 180 closed, the exit door 184 can be opened so as topermit communication with the combustion chamber 176. The garbage 188can be supplied to the combustion chamber 176 by any suitable means,including, for example, by being pushed by a ram 186. The garbage 188can be selectively pushed into the combustion chamber 176 at differentspeeds, which can be selected by an operator depending on the type ofgarbage being burned. For wet garbage, the garbage can be moved into thecombustion chamber 176 relatively slowly. By doing so, the hightemperatures of the combustion chamber 176 can flash evaporate moistureout of the garbage. As a result, the garbage will be substantially dryas it enters the combustion chamber 176, allowing it to be burned moreeasily. On the other hand, dry waste can be moved into the combustionchamber 176 relatively rapidly in order to keep it from burning tooquickly, which can create fly ash.

When it exits the feeders 174, the garbage 188 can fall into thecombustion chamber 176 and is supported by the grating system 70.Initially, the grate panels 72 can be arranged in their most horizontalposition when the garbage 188 enters and can be slowly loweredthereafter. Exposure to the high temperatures in the combustion chamber176 can cause the garbage to burn.

The burning of the garbage 188 can be facilitated by air exiting thechannels 48 in the bricks 10, as shown in FIG. 17. The air can deliveredto the combustion chamber 176 preheated because the air passes in heatexchanging relation with the brick as it travels through the channels 48in the relatively hot bricks 10. As a result, the air can be heated to ahigh temperature. As the air enters the combustion chamber 176 it canignite the burnable material on and near the brick 10, which, in turn,further heats the air from the bricks. Because of the supply ofpre-heated air, an incinerator system according to aspects of theinvention may not require the use of a burner. However, during startup,an initial load of garbage may need to be ignited by a flame source,such as a match, igniter or burner.

As the garbage 188 burns, the grating system 70 according to aspects ofthe invention is configured to minimize the problem of air blockageassociated with previous incinerator systems. In particular, the factthat a portion of lower end region 46 of each brick 10 overhangs thechannels 48 can minimize the possibility of blockage. The overhangingportion and the generally downward angle of the bricks 10 can ensurethat the molten materials, such as glass 190, plastic or non-ferricmetals, will fall off the lower end region 46 of one brick 10 and ontothe brick below, as is generally shown in FIG. 17, thereby leaving thechannels 48 unimpeded. The process can continue with the molten materialcascading down the grate panel 72 and ultimately into the ash removalsystem 104. Further, because the channels 48 deliver pre-heated air, thearea near the exit end of the 54 channels 48 will be hotter, helping toburn away any materials that may otherwise collect in the area.

During incineration, the grate panels 72 can be moved in a pivotingmanner, as shown in FIG. 16. As noted above, each grate panel 72 can bemoved independently of the other grate 72. Movement of the grate panels72 can agitate the garbage supported thereon. Such agitation can help toaerate the garbage 72 and can create a stoking effect, both of which canfacilitate the process of burning the garbage.

Incineration can further be fostered by the first auger 122. As notedabove, air can be supplied to the hollow interior 128 of the first auger122. The pressure at which the air is supplied can be varied as needed.In one embodiment, the pressure of the air can be sufficient to preventany appreciable quantity of air from exiting the passages 132 that aresubmerged in the water 108. The pressure of the air can be sufficient toprevent water 108 from entering the hollow interior 128 of the firstauger 122.

This air can be kept at a relatively cool temperature because of thewater 108 surrounding at least a portion of the first auger 122. Thetemperature of the air can be regulated at least in part by the depth ofthe water 108 and/or the temperature of the water 108. Because this airis at a relatively cool temperature compared to the air in thecombustion chamber 100, the air in the first auger 122 is denser thanthe relatively hot air in the combustion chamber 100. Such air cansupply a sufficient amount and/or concentration of oxygen to helpcomplete the final burn before the ash falls into the water 108.Depending on the material being burned, more or less time may be neededto complete the final burn. To provide sufficient time for the finalburn, the water level in the reservoir 106 can be selectively adjustedaccordingly by adding or removing water from the reservoir 106.

Once the garbage is burned, the combustion products, such as ash, canrise to the stack where they can be treated, or they can fall into theash removal system 104. The combustion products can be quenched whenthey drop into the water 108 in the reservoir 106. Larger pieces ofmaterial, including large pieces of glass and/or metal sometimesreferred to as “clinkers,” can be broken up or torn apart by the rib 130on the first auger 122. After passing the first auger 122, the materialscan fall down further in the reservoir 106 to the second auger 124. Inthe lower region 112 surrounding the second auger 124, the reservoir 106can narrow to ensure that a substantial portion of the combustionproducts are engaged by the second auger 124.

The second auger 124 can transport the combustion products to a conveyor142 located in an adjacent chamber 144, as shown in FIG. 13. Theconveyor 142 can transport the ash to a disposal truck or any suitableash disposal means. It should be noted that, when the system includes aplurality of combustion chambers 176, the first and second augers 122,124 can extend through each combustion chamber, delivering the ash fromeach combustion chamber 176 to a single conveyor 142. Alternatively,each combustion chamber can have a dedicated first auger, second augerand conveyor.

The incineration and ash removal system according to aspects of theinvention can provide numerous advantages. The system can efficiencyburn waste and collect and dispose of ash. In many cases, additionalpollution control measure may not necessary to meet the legally mandatedstandards. The system can provide great flexibility. For instance, thesystem can burn several different types of waste in parallel. The systemcan handle new garbage or old waste, wet or dry. The grating system isconfigured so that the panels can readily accommodate different types orcombinations of bricks to improve efficiency. Because the bricks areremovably installed on the support rack, the system can be relativelyeasy to service. These and other advantages can be realized with asystem in accordance with aspects of the invention.

It will be understood that the invention is not limited to the specificdetails described herein, which are given by way of example only, andthat various modifications and alterations are possible within the scopeof the invention as defined in the following claims.

1. A incinerator system comprising: a combustion chamber; and a gratingsystem including a first panel and an opposite second panel, each of thefirst and second panels supporting a plurality of bricks, at least aportion of each panel being housed within the combustion chamber, thefirst panel and the second panel being angled relative to each other soas to be arranged in a generally v-shaped configuration, each of thefirst and second panels being pivotable.
 2. The incinerator system ofclaim 1 wherein the first and second panels are independently pivotable.3. The incinerator system of claim 1 wherein the first panel includes anassociated pivot point and the second panel includes an associated pivotpoint, wherein the pivot point of at least one of the first and secondpanels is located in an upper end region thereof.
 4. The incineratorsystem of claim 1 wherein at least one of the bricks has a channelextending therethrough.
 5. The incinerator system of claim 4 whereineach channel is fluidly connected to an air source, whereby air flowsalong the channel.
 6. The incinerator system of claim 1 furtherincluding an arm operatively connected to each of the first and secondpanels, whereby pivoting movement of the first and second panels isachieved by movement of the arm.
 7. The incinerator system of claim 6wherein the arm is a hydraulic arm.
 8. The incinerator system of claim 7further including a timer operatively associated with the hydraulic arm,whereby the panels can be pivoted on a predetermined timed basis.
 9. Theincinerator system of claim 1 wherein at least one of the first andsecond panels is pivotably mounted to a structure outside of thecombustion chamber.